Manchester City eye move for £60 million-rated PL star Chelsea wanted to sign - Reports

Manchester City are planning a swap deal for Chelsea target Adam Wharton, according to The Daily Star (via Tribal Football). The reigning champions are scouting the market for Rodri's replacement, with the Spanish midfielder unlikely to play again this season.

Rodri picked up an ACL injury in September this year and the Cityzens have struggled in his absence so far. Manchester City are fourth in the Premier League table after 15 games, 10 points behind leaders Liverpool, who have a game in hand.

Pep Guardiola is eager to address the defensive midfield position at the turn of the year and has Wharton on his wish list. However, Chelsea are also interested in the 20-year-old.

The Blues have targeted talented young footballers of late and Wharton fits the bill. The London giants are planning to continue the trend in 2025 and have their eyes on the Englishman.

Wharton arrived at Crystal Palace from Blackburn Rovers last year in a reported £18m deal and has enjoyed a steady rise so far. He is under contract with Crystal Palace until 2029 and is reportedly valued at £60m.

However, the Eagles' interest in James McAtee could work in Manchester City's favor in the race. McAtee is valued at £25m, and the Cityzens could include him as part of a player-plus-cash deal to win the race for Wharton's signature. Wharton has made 10 appearances across competitions for Crystal Palace this season, registering one assist.

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Can Chelsea finish above Manchester City in the Premier League this season?

Enzo Maresca

Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher reckons Chelsea can finish above Manchester City in the Premier League this season. The Blues are currently second in the league table after 14 games, a point ahead of the reigning champions, who have played a game more.

Enzo Maresca's team have won eight games and lost just twice in the league so far. They have scored a league-high 31 goals and have conceded just 15.

Speaking recently on The Overlap, Carragher pointed out that the London giants are winning games with ease.

“I’m telling you, I think Chelsea are going to finish above Man City. They’re winning games with ease,” said Carragher.

Chelsea next faces Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday, December 8, in the Premier League. Meanwhile, Manchester City could only manage a 2-2 draw against Crystal Palace on Saturday. They have now lost four of their 15 games in the Premier League this season.